Post Dithwah Gloom - By Chula KumuAbeygunawardane

Written By: Chula KumuAbeygunawardane

Category: Poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

We have the pleasure of featuring "Post Dithwah Gloom," a poignant piece by Chula KumuAbeygunawardane, under the evocative pseudonym Post Dithwah Goom. As part of the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, this poem explores themes of desolation and hope. It delves into the aftermath of chaos with a reflective lens that questions societal constructs and the resilience of nature and humanity.

About the Work

"Post Dithwah Gloom" paints a vivid picture of a world in disarray. Through stark imagery and evocative language, Chula KumuAbeygunawardane captures the haunting stillness that follows destruction. The poem vividly depicts scenes of decay and abandonment while hinting at the faint glimmer of revival. It reflects on the fragility of societal systems and the enduring spirit that longs for renewal.

Post Dithwah Goom

Original Submission by Chula KumuAbeygunawardane

Post Dithwah Gloom

Those who heed with naked eyes

find little left for comfort.

The heavens feel closed,

angels fled in fear wwherever only ruins remain. Shaken boulders darkened

by doubt and disbelief.

Has "The devil"

descent of both heaven and hell,

Swept away in murderous swirl and tremor?

Plastic bottles drift on still puddles of water, shopping bags and ragged polythene cling to fences, walls, and twigs

like torn veils left to mourn.

Houses fallen into stillness,

vehicles kneel, like hunted animals.

By the roadside, bloated animals lie

as though waiting for resurrection

that does not yet come.

Groceries return to dust

Upon pavements,

rotting garbage gather like unconfessed sin. Mountains stand bear

With bleeding muddy bruises.

A dog cries for its master,

a small lament echoing the Psalms. Unaware, the bodies rest below,

sealed in earth, awaiting the last trumpet.

Systems - socialist, democratic,

names written like commandments - Many "isms" and logic, debates that split hair. Countless rows between black and white; all stand powerless

before the sorrow of the nation's soul.

Yet as evening descends.

a vigil begins.

Candles are lit in shattered places.

And through the stones that cover the tombs, Somewhere beneath the ruin, a breath is held - as if dawn remembers how to rise.

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, hosted by Hashtag Kalakar, is a prestigious platform celebrating literary excellence. This competition seeks to elevate voices from around the world, inviting participants to share their unique narratives and poetic expressions. It fosters a diverse community of writers, offering them a stage to showcase their creativity and engage with global audiences.

We extend our gratitude to Chula KumuAbeygunawardane for sharing "Post Dithwah Gloom" in the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. Your evocative portrayal of a world on the cusp of renewal invites reflection and introspection. Thank you for contributing your voice to this international celebration of poetry and creative writing.

About Hashtag Kalakar

Hashtag Kalakar is a creative platform dedicated to providing artists, writers, singers and other creative talents with opportunities to showcase their work and reach wider audiences through competitions, features and creative initiatives.